Florida Short About 121K Housing Units

Florida Short About 121K Housing Units

By Amy Connolly New data shows supply falling behind demand across rental and for-sale markets, with shortages concentrated in major metro areas. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida is short an estimated 66,000 owner-occupied homes and more than 55,000 rental units, according...
Lower Rates Could Nudge Spring Activity

Lower Rates Could Nudge Spring Activity

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey The dip in mortgage rates may give buyers more room and offer a modest lift as the spring housing market continues to gain traction. WASHINGTON – Mortgage rates eased slightly this week after several weeks of climbing from their...
Consumers Grow More Cautious on Economy

Consumers Grow More Cautious on Economy

By Joey Ramson U.S. consumer sentiment fell more than expected in April, signaling rising concern about finances that could slow spending, including big purchases like homes. WASHINGTON – U.S. consumer sentiment declined more than expected in April, signaling growing...
How Deck Problems Can Reshape a Sale

How Deck Problems Can Reshape a Sale

By Kirk Gollwitzer What looks like a minor deck issue can turn into an expensive project, with hidden structural problems, labor and materials quickly driving up costs. NEW YORK – This column is about home improvement, specifically wooden decks. It is also a reminder,...
Mortgage Rates Ease After Five-Week Climb

Mortgage Rates Ease After Five-Week Climb

By Alex Veiga The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate dropped to 6.37% from 6.46% last week, while 15-year rates dropped to 5.74% from 5.77%, according to Freddie Mac. WASHINGTON – The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate eased this week, a modest relief for...
Fed Officials See Rising Case for Rate Increases

Fed Officials See Rising Case for Rate Increases

By Christopher Rugaber Fed minutes show growing concern that inflation could stay elevated, a shift that could delay rate cuts and ultimately keep mortgage rates higher. WASHINGTON — The number of Federal Reserve policymakers willing to consider an interest rate hike...